Objective of the Game
In 1830, the objective is to become the wealthiest player by the end of the game through purchasing and trading stocks, building, and operating railways. The player with the highest net worth (cash plus stock value) is the winner.
Overview
1830 is a complex economic game with two main phases: a Stock Round and an Operating Round. The game simulates the development of railway companies in 19th-century America.
Number of Players
- Minimum: 3 players
- Maximum: 6 players
Game Components
- A board featuring the northeastern part of the USA with hexes for tracks.
- Share cards for different railway companies.
- Money in various denominations.
- Track and train tokens.
- Operating and stock markers.
Gameplay
Stock Round
- Objective: Buy and sell shares in railway companies.
- Each player takes turns purchasing one share or passing.
- A player becomes the president of a company when they hold the majority of shares.
- Stock prices fluctuate based on demand and sales.
Strategic Tip: Consider the future plans and potential dividend payments of the companies when making decisions.
Operating Round
- Objective: Build tracks, operate trains, and collect earnings.
- The president of each company decides where to build tracks.
- Each company owns or buys trains which it operates over the built tracks.
- Earnings are either paid out as dividends or reinvested to increase the company's value.
Strategic Tip: Optimally planning track routes and operating trains efficiently can maximize income.
Game End
- The game ends when the bank runs out of money or a player goes bankrupt.
- Each player's final worth is calculated.
- The player with the highest combined cash and stock value is the winner.
Additional Notes
- Differences from similar games: Unlike some lighter games in this genre, 1830 requires long-term strategic planning across both financial and infrastructure decisions.
1830 is renowned for its strategic depth and player interaction, particularly in stock market manipulation and company development.
